“Hosaka Yuji: ‘Joseon Scholars and Japanese Samurai’”

Hosaka Yuji is currently serving as a professor at. Sejong University’s College of Ocean Humanities. He graduated from the University of Tokyo and. completed his master’s and doctoral degrees at Korea’s Korea University. In 2003, he naturalized as a citizen of the Republic of Korea. He is now well known as an expert in Korean-Japanese relations.

Despite being Japanese, Hosaka often takes on the role of representing South Korea’s position in international relations. As a result, he is well recognized and well-liked in South Korea.

“Hosaka Yuji’s Perspective: Joseon Scholars and Japanese Samurai”

As a professor well-versed in both Korean and Japanese affairs, one may find unique books comparing the two countries. There is a book comparing the scholars of the Joseon Dynasty with the samurai of Japan, which is quite remarkable in intertwining these seemingly. different aspects into one volume.

“More Korean than Koreans: Hosaka Yuji”

Although the author is of Japanese origin, one might consider him more Korean than Koreans themselves. Originally interested in ethnic Koreans active in sports and entertainment in Japan, his decision to study Korean-Japanese relations came after learning about the assassination of Empress Myeongseong. To conduct in-depth research, he moved to Seoul and obtained his master’s and doctoral degrees in Political Science and Diplomacy from Korea University.

“Joseon Scholars and Japanese Samurai”

The book compares and contrasts Joseon scholars, considered the ruling class in Korea, with the samurai, the ruling class in Japan.

“What Were Joseon Scholars Like?”

Firstly, the book delves into the concept of Joseon scholars. According to Kwongeun, a scholar of the Joseon Dynasty, the nobility of a scholar lies in their ability to pursue government positions when capable and to focus on farming when they cannot. Similarly, Yi I, also known as Yulgok, described scholars in his “Donghoemun,” emphasizing their responsibility not only to keep themselves clean but also to help clean others. He argued that scholars should strive to make everyone as virtuous as themselves. Essentially, scholars should not only pursue government positions but also aim to spread their ideology, even if they are unable to realize it through official channels.

“What Were Japanese Samurai Like?”

Next, the book discusses Japanese samurai, who originated from the upper class. The first samurai in Japan is said to be Masakado Daiura from the mid-Heian period. They followed a code of conduct known as “Bushido,” which bears some similarity to the principles followed by Joseon scholars. However, one key difference is that while scholars fought with brushes, samurai fought with swords.

However, until the 16th century, particularly before the Imjin War, the typical mindset of samurai viewed their lord as a replaceable entity. Ironically, during the Imjin War, Confucianism spread to Japan, influencing Japanese people and gradually transforming their mindset, making it more akin to that of Joseon scholars.

From then on, the mindset of samurai underwent changes, and their core values became more similar to those of Joseon scholars.

“Emphasis on Filial Piety by Joseon Scholars vs. Loyalty by Japanese Samurai”

Another difference between scholars and samurai lies in their emphasis on values. Joseon scholars emphasized filial piety over loyalty, while samurai prioritized loyalty over filial piety.

“The Origins of Joseon Scholars and Japanese Samurai”

Although scholars have always existed, their prominence is believed to have increased significantly during the Goryeo Dynasty when Confucianism was introduced from China. Confucianism, a philosophical system understanding the origin of the universe, became prevalent.

As for Japan, samurai originated from various backgrounds. Firstly, peasants armed themselves to protect their property and land. Many such samurai emerged during the late Heian period (794-1191). Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who instigated the Imjin War, was also a samurai from a peasant background.

Secondly, some local governors (Kokushi) who stayed in their jurisdictions instead of returning to Kyoto after their terms ended became samurai. These governors were appointed to manage local affairs, and among them were nobles and aristocrats who were not highly regarded in Kyoto. They became samurai by not returning to Kyoto and instead remaining in their regions.

“The Precursor of the Korean Wave: Joseon Diplomatic Missions”

During the late Joseon period, Korea dispatched diplomatic missions to Japan at the latter’s request. Korea aimed to spread advanced culture to Japan, while Japan sought to maintain diplomatic relations with Korea.

These missions were popular in Japan, akin to today’s Korean Wave stars. Scholars would recite their poetry, and many Japanese people would request corrections to their writing. Hearing stories about the popularity of these missions, one can’t help but draw parallels to today’s Korean Wave stars.

“Was Joseon Really Weak?”

Looking at Korean history from a narrow perspective, it’s evident that the country faced many unfortunate events. The portrayal often leans toward passivity, with Korea often depicted as being at the mercy of other nations.

The Joseon Dynasty, in particular, faced challenges such as the Imjin War and the Byeongja Horan, experiencing periods of hardship.

However, a closer examination of history suggests that Joseon was not simply a weak nation. Despite facing two major wars, the fact that the country survived until today warrants positive evaluation. Despite mismanagement by officials and repeated instances of saving the nation by the people, Korea has maintained its status as an independent nation.

Applying the saying, “Survival of the fittest,” one might argue that Korea was not simply a weak nation but one that survived, demonstrating its strength.

“Can We Accept Confucianism as a Form of Philosophy?”

Similar contemplation arises regarding Confucianism. In the past, studying Confucianism didn’t always elicit positive views. It often felt disconnected from reality, perceived as a philosophical pursuit exclusive to its practitioners.

However, perceptions gradually shift. The fact that Confucianism flourished in countries like Korea suggests it wasn’t far behind Western philosophy in terms of relevance.

“A Book Covering Various Aspects of Japanese History”

Given its focus on comparing Joseon and Japan, the book also introduces many aspects of Japanese history. Readers with knowledge of both Korean and Japanese history would find the book more relatable and understandable, providing deeper insights into both countries.

As a fascinating and meaningful book comparing Joseon scholars and Japanese samurai, it broadens our understanding of two seemingly similar yet different countries.

“Joseon Scholars and Japanese Samurai”